Manchester United winger Antony has claimed the air conditioning inside Qatar’s World Cup stadiums has been making him and other members of the Brazil squad ill.
Several stadiums in Qatar were built with air conditioning systems to tackle the heat during the tournament.
The air conditioning works via a series of nozzles around the edge of the pitch that shoot out cold air at different angles and at different speeds to cover as much of the playing area as possible.
In the stands, more nozzles beneath the seats cool the air for spectators.
22-year-old Antony, who missed two of Brazil’s training sessions during the World Cup, has suggested the air conditioning in the stadiums has had an impact on his health and other members of Tite’s team.
When speaking about his fitness, Antony said to ESPN Brazil: ”It was a bit difficult. I ended up having a bad feeling there for a few days that complicated me a bit.
“I’m recovering well and getting 100 per cent. It was more of a sickness, throat. It was the air conditioning (in the stadiums).
”Not only me, but other players also had a cough and a bad throat. It’s very difficult for me to get sick, but I’m happy to be an important part of the team. Whenever you need Antony, I’m available.”
Air conditioning sickness occurs when there is poor ventilation inside a specific building and if there are pollutants, such as bacteria, inside that area. Air conditioning helps spread the pollutants, causing symptoms related to cold-causing viruses.
Antony was brought on as a substitute during Brazil’s 1-0 victory over Switzerland that saw them qualify for the knockout stages of the World Cup.
Brazil will play Cameroon in their final Group G fixture this Friday.
The Athletic has contacted the Qatar Supreme Committee for comment.
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